Defense Blueprint: Unpacking the NDAA
As the cornerstone of U.S. defense budgeting, the NDAA addresses issues such as military pay, benefits, procurement of weapons systems, research and development, and foreign policy strategies.
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act – Tax Series Part 2 of 5
Tax
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), passed in December 2017, represents one of the most significant overhauls of the U.S. tax system in decades. The act was designed to spur economic growth by reducing the tax burden on individuals and businesses. However, the long-term effectiveness of the act in achieving sustained economic growth continues to be debated.
Unpacking the Influence of Influencers
Technology Workforce
The digital landscape has undergone a profound transformation in recent years, giving individuals new opportunities to create, share, and monetize content. This shift has blurred the lines between traditional media, entrepreneurship, and personal branding, leading to the emergence of a dynamic and rapidly evolving creator economy.
Strengthening America’s Healthcare Workforce: Burnout, Shortages, and Development
Health Care Workforce
Healthcare careers are divided across various sectors, including hospital care, ambulatory services, and life sciences. However, recent years have shown declining workforce levels in several critical areas, notably primary care, pediatric specialty care, and mental health, especially in rural communities. Key reasons include early retirements, burnout, insufficient workforce pipelines, burdensome administrative responsibilities, and payment disincentives.
Creating a Circular Economy: Plastics
Climate & Sustainability
Plastics play a vital role in many of the products and applications that make modern life possible. To address the challenges associated with plastics, policymakers at every level of government are considering a wide range of solutions designed to promote a circular economy that minimizes waste and allows more materials to be reused, recycled, or recovered.
Diversifying Growth: Private Credit and the Financial System
Financial Services
Private credit, an expanding sector within the financial system, represents a form of lending provided by non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs) such as credit funds, hedge funds, and insurance companies. Unlike traditional bank loans, private credit involves direct, privately negotiated contracts between lenders and borrowers.
The Snap Surprise in Japanese Politics
Governance
In a recent snap election called by Prime Minister Ishiba, the ruling coalition in the Japanese legislature fell short of the 233 seats required for a majority. Voter frustration with corruption allegations and rising inflation likely contributed to the defeat. The path forward is uncertain, as the National Diet must now address critical economic concerns while exploring coalition possibilities.
A Roadmap for AI
Technology
In response to the rapid development of AI, U.S. lawmakers have released a roadmap for AI policy, aiming to balance innovation with necessary regulation.